The art of breathing; techniques and benefits to improve your day

You do it all the time. In, out, in, out....without even thinking about it. A bit of attention to your breath can make a big difference in your day. Let's look at 3 breathing techniques and then talk about it's benefits.

1. Even breath - Sitting comfortably, breathe in through your nose for a count of 5 seconds, breathe out through your mouth for a count of 5 seconds. Your breath may be longer or shorter, the important part is to breathe in and out for the same amount of time.
2. Focused exhale breathing - Same as the even breath, sit comfortably, breathe in through your nose for 5 seconds, this time breathe out for a count of 7. Again, your may breathe for more or less time, the important part here is to breathe out for 2-3 counts longer than your in breath.
3. Restrained breath - Sitting comfortably, breathe in for 5 counts, hold your breath for 2 counts and exhale out for 5, hold your breath for 2 and repeat. Inhale, hold, exhale, hold. Adjust your inhale, hold and exhale time so that it is comfortable for you.

Benefits of breathing:

• Increases oxygen levels in the body
• Improves brain function
• Improves your ability to focus
• Improves your ability to manage stress
• Decreases stress
• Increases energy
• Improves digestion

Challenge yourself to set aside 5 minutes a day to just breathe. You will be amazed at the results.